👋 Hey, I’m Tina. I’m glad you’re taking this moment to slow down with me. Each time I go deep into something I think will help you design better products and nurture your career.
In this edition, we will cover how you can take your product from viable to loveable.
The MVP (Minimum Viable Product) might validate that people use your product, but it won’t always get them talking.
It's because too often, "minimum" is taken literally, leading to compromises in design and scope. While an MVP ensures your product is viable, an MLP (Minimum Lovable Product) ensures it is also loved.
Transitioning from MVP to MLP isn't just a shift in terminology; it's a shift in mindset.
There's a proven link between a positive user experience and customer loyalty. Consider every interaction with your potential customers an opportunity to make an impression.
One of the things I really like about MLP is the focus. While MVP focuses on product development, MLP focuses on the user.
If you’re aiming to validate your concept, start with an MVP. Once you need real engagement, it’s time to build an MLP. That means talking to the users to understand what makes them love your product.
Here are 5 tips to go from viable to loveable
Design for one user
Instead of developing a product for everyone, design for one type of user.
Identify a use case that is also a very correct use of your product, aligned with your business and vision. This use case should also be scalable, meaning there should be enough people with the same problem.
Solve the highest-value problem
Start with the user's why, not the business why. Prioritize building features that relieve your highest customers’ pain and allow them to get their jobs done simply and easily. Listen but don't take their words literally. Try to understand the root of the problem first.
Do one thing well
Don't try to do too much, too soon. Get the core right and you’ll make your life a whole lot easier. If you're going to build a feature, make sure it meets a basic standard of execution in regards to user experience.
Design for emotion
Sweating out details, and adding elements of surprise and delight can help you build true fans around your product. Who will love you so much that they’ll wear a T-shirt with the logo of your company? Win their heart and mind, not just wallets.
Make it a part of your strategy
Very often startups suffer from 'the lonely MVP syndrome', where the MVP becomes the final product, not a stepping stone in a broader product development strategy. This is where the shift to MLP can help you narrow the gap. If you want your product to stand out, it’s time to upgrade.
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In case you missed
I like writing about design topics through the lens of my experience. Here are some of my recent LinkedIn posts you might find interesting:
Unpopular opinion: You don't need to prove the business value of design.
Underrated skill in design: ability to simplify.
Much love,
Tina Iurkova
